Q: What was your primary motivation to seek elected office?
I am pleased to be putting my name forward as a trustee candidate for GSACRD. As a retired Catholic teacher with a passion for education and lifelong learning, I would be honored to continue addressing the needs of students while working collaboratively with senior administration and community stakeholders. It has been a privilege to serve as a Catholic trustee for the last 8 years and see our district be recognized for outstanding education results. It is a privilege and honor to work in a district with such an exceptional reputation and I look forward to supporting the opening of Sister Alphonse Academy.

Q: What skills and experiences have prepared you for this office??My teaching career spanned over 30 years, teaching grades 3 to12 in both rural and urban schools. As a trustee, I have served as chair and vice chair of the board, as a representative for ASBA Zone 2/3, a representative of ATA and CUPE negotiations, a director for ACSTA and Alberta School Boards’ Insurance Exchange, as well as a member on numerous local committees. Serving both locally and provincially has given me a greater understanding of the issues facing our families as well as insight into the government’s mandate on education.

Q: What do you think are the most important issues to the community at large?
Mental health and student well-being, cultural and language diversity, Indigenous reconciliation and education are a few of the challenges that face our school district. A welcoming, caring and safe learning environment that respects cultural diversity will foster a sense of belonging and support student success.

Q: What specific goals will you work to achieve if elected?
I am committed to addressing the needs of all students, teachers and parents while meeting the standards set out by Alberta Education and the teachings of the Catholic Church. Parents are seeking a strong variety of programs and supports, be it accessibility to sport and wellness activities, language programming, technology, or fine arts. I am committed to integrating as many of these programs as possible within the district’s allocated budget.

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